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What's Next for Michigan Social Work Licensure?

We know this isn’t the news many of us were hoping for: the Social Work Licensure Modernization Act (HB 5184 & HB 5185) will not move forward this legislative session (2023-2024). While this outcome is understandably disappointing, it’s important to recognize that this is not the end of the road. Instead, it represents an opportunity to continue building on the momentum and progress we’ve made together as we prepare to reintroduce as early as possible in 2025. Read the full end of the year update by clicking here.

 

What is the Social Work Licensure Modernization Act?

The Social Work Licensure Modernization Act, or House Bills 5184 and 5185, aims to increase Michigan’s licensed social workers by addressing workforce shortages and removing barriers that have limited access. Key updates proposed in this legislation include:

  • Restructuring licenses to better align with licensing standards in other states:
    • Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW)
    • Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) for generalist and supervised clinical practice
    • Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) for independent clinical practice
  • Replacing the ASWB exam requirement with a more affordable, open-book, state-specific & competency-based exam to address pass rate disparities.
  • Reducing clinical supervision hours from 4,000 to 3,000, as Michigan's current requirement is the highest in the nation.

It is important to note that once this bill passes and is signed into law, it will take approximately 18 months from that date for it to go into effect. This is because a new test will need to be designed and the current systems & structures in place will need the time to update.

 

To read the direct bill language from the Social Work Licensure Modernization Act, please click here for House Bill 5184 or click here for House Bill 5185.

 

To learn more about the introduction of the Social Work Licensure Modernization Act, including Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ), please click here.

 

Want to share your journey with social work licensing? Connect with our Workforce Development Manager - Jordan Freeman, LMSW-Clinical at jfreeman.naswmi@socialworkers.org.

 

Key Highlights

  • Current Landscape: Michigan’s outdated licensure requirements have remained largely unchanged despite nationwide advancements. Our efforts aim to align Michigan’s system with other states by removing the ASWB exam requirement and improving supervision standards.
  • Legislative & Stakeholder Engagement: Key NASW-Michigan leaders continue to meet with state representatives, including those on the Behavioral Health Subcommittee, to gather support. Stakeholders like the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) and Michigan Deans and Directors remain instrumental advocates for reform.
  • National Collaborations: Discussions with ASWB, as well as observation of the Social Work Interstate Compact Commission, have revealed opportunities for Michigan to lead in developing alternative licensure pathways, emphasizing the importance of quality supervision over exam-based qualifications.
  • Internal Research: Research led by NASW-Michigan’s Workforce Program Manager supports the initiative’s focus on supervision as a critical component for competency and ethical practice. Findings indicate that improved supervision standards, rather than exams, better ensure social worker preparedness.

 

Licensure News Archive: Track the Journey

 

ASWB Pass Rate Data & Reports

 

Legislative Action Center: Get Involved in Licensure Reform

Help ensure Michigan’s social work licensure reflects the needs of our profession and communities. Visit our Legislative Action Center to contact your legislators and advocate for passing licensure reform that reduces barriers and supports equitable access for all social workers. Click here to visit our Legislative Action Center and get involved today!

 

Expert Research and State-by-State Licensure Updates

As the landscape of social work continues to evolve, states across the nation are rethinking traditional licensing requirements to create more accessible, equitable pathways into the profession. This movement reflects an increasing awareness of the challenges faced by social workers—particularly those from diverse backgrounds—as they seek licensure. Highlighted below are several innovative approaches from states that have reimagined the use of the ASWB exam and other requirements, addressing barriers while maintaining the high standards and quality of care that define social work. Learn more about these impactful changes and the steps being taken to make our profession more inclusive for all.

  • Alternative Pathways to Social Work Licensure: A Critical Review and Social Equity Policy Analysis: In August 2022, a pass rate analysis by the Association of Social Work Boards highlighted disparities in exam results for social workers from various backgrounds. While some states are reconsidering licensure exams for bachelor's, master's, and advanced generalist levels, many remain hesitant to change the clinical exam requirement. Jenn Hirsch and partners conducted an analysis to review possible alternatives to traditional exams, focusing on equitable options like oral exams, portfolios, performance assessments, jurisprudence exams, and provisional licensure. Using an Afrocentric lens, it examined the impacts on Black social workers, non-native English speakers, and social workers with disabilities. Jurisprudence exams and provisional licensure were found to be the most equitable options, supporting fairer access and outcomes. Ultimately, the findings advocate for moving away from competency-based exams to advance anti-racism and social justice in the social work profession. Read the full Alternative Pathways to Social Work Licensure: A Critical Review and Social Equity Policy Analysis report by clicking here.
  • Minnesota: In June 2024, Minnesota reformed its licensure process by removing the mandatory ASWB exam requirement for all licensing categories, including the clinical level. This decision was influenced by a successful pilot program aimed at Hmong immigrants and others for whom English is a second language. Licensing candidates now have the option to either take the traditional exam or complete additional supervision hours. Learn more about Minnesota's social work licensing efforts by clicking here.
  • Oregon: Oregon established a committee to review the ASWB exam and social work licensing standards. The committee's report expressed significant concerns about the exam's impact on BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) social workers, stating that the ASWB exam has perpetuated a system of exclusion. The report also noted that eliminating exams in other professions has not adversely affected the quality of services provided. Read The Alternative Pathways to Social Work Licensure Committee Final Report and Recommendations to the Oregon Board of Licensed Social Workers on the ASWB Examination for Licensing and Certification of Professional Social Workers by clicking here.
  • Rhode Island: Responding to a mental health crisis and the urgent need for more social workers, Rhode Island suspended the ASWB exam requirement for Master's level licenses until at least August 2025. This suspension is part of the state's efforts to streamline the licensure process and address workforce shortages. Read more from the State of Rhode Island Social Work Licensing Department by clicking here.
  • Colorado: In August 2024, Colorado enacted legislation that eliminated the ASWB exam requirement for Licensed Social Worker (LSW) applicants. The state now requires LSW candidates to pass the Colorado Jurisprudence Examination instead. This change aims to reduce barriers for new social workers entering the field. Read more on Colorado's social work licensing at NASW-Colorado's page by clicking here.
  • Illinois: Illinois has introduced a groundbreaking alternative to the ASWB clinical licensure exam with the passing of HB 2365, signed by Governor J.B. Pritzker. Effective January 1, 2024, this law offers a new pathway for aspiring licensed clinical social workers, especially those impacted by standardized testing barriers. To qualify, candidates need a master’s degree in social work, 3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience, and an ASWB exam attempt within the last five years. If the ASWB test remains a barrier, an additional 3,000 hours of supervised work can fulfill licensure requirements, broadening access to licensure for a more diverse social work workforce. Read more on Illinois's social work licensing alternatives at NASW-Illinois's page by clicking here.
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